A meaningful gathering of spiritual leaders, scholars, and delegates was held at the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre (MIMC), Choglamsar, during an Interfaith Conference organised under the theme “Sacred Wisdom for a Compassionate World: Interfaith Paths to Peace, Harmony and Human Flourishing” on May 8.

The conference was organised as part of the Sacred Grand Exposition of the Holy Relics of the Tathagata Buddha and reflected the shared message of peace, compassion, and harmony across different faith traditions. The programme served as a reminder that true peace begins within oneself, while harmony among communities grows through mutual respect, understanding, and compassion.

The event commenced with a traditional welcome and offering of khataks, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the holy lamp and a multi-faith invocation.

In his welcome address, Venerable Bhikkhu Sanghasena, Founder President and Spiritual Director of MIMC, expressed gratitude to all religious leaders, dignitaries, and participants for attending the conference. He highlighted the importance of interfaith unity and said such dialogues are essential for promoting compassion, harmony, and peaceful coexistence in society.

Chief Secretary, UT Ladakh, Ashish Kundra (IAS), in his special address, stated that the interfaith dialogue held in connection with the Holy Relics Exposition was deeply meaningful, as more than 65,000 devotees had already received blessings. He said visitors carried the spirit of peace and compassion, while Ladakh continues to remain a unique example where followers of different religions live together with mutual respect.

He added that despite being a border region, Ladakh has always remained peaceful and stands as an inspiration for the world. The Chief Secretary further underlined that all religions promote equality, harmony, and inner peace, and such values must continue to guide society even as development progresses.

The Chief Guest, His Eminence Thuksey Rinpoche, while addressing the gathering, emphasised that many people in the 21st century feel confused, lost, and engaged in conflict. He said it is the responsibility of spiritual leaders to guide society and stressed that this is a time not only for teachings but also for action.

He highlighted that although religions may differ in philosophy and teachings, they ultimately lead towards harmony, compassion, and peace. He further stated that India’s diversity stands as a strong example of unity, while Ladakh remains a living model of interfaith coexistence for the world.

Recalling Ladakh’s long history of mutual respect among communities, particularly between Buddhists and Muslims, he stressed that youth must learn and understand these values through schools and colleges. He also appealed to religious leaders to continue guiding society and working collectively for harmony and peace.

Thuksey Rinpoche appreciated the efforts of Venerable Bhikkhu Sanghasena towards Ladakh and expressed hope for continued contributions in the future.

President of the Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA), Leh, Chering Dorjay, also spoke on the occasion and expressed gratitude to the UT Administration, Ministry of Culture, and Government of India for organising the sacred exposition and interfaith programme.

He said Ladakh has always upheld the values of harmony and compassion and described the construction of a Gonpa in Kargil as a significant achievement and a symbol of communal harmony. He also cautioned that certain forces attempt to divide communities and welcomed religious leaders from across the country to Ladakh to further strengthen unity and mutual understanding.

The conference also featured technical sessions on themes such as “Spiritual Foundations of Compassion and Peace” and “Interfaith Harmony, Social Justice and Global Responsibility.”

Prominent speakers included H.H. Acharya Dr. Lokesh Muni, H.H. Goswami Sushil Ji Maharaj, Imam Umer Ahmed Ilyasi, Sulekha Kumbhare, Sardar Paramjeet Singh Chandok, Dr. Sheikh Hasnain Ladakhi, Rev. Dechen Chagma, Anil Kumar Jain, Dr. Gopi Krishna Pitadala, Dr. A.K. Merchant, and Rajyogini Dr. Binny Sareen.

The sessions concluded with reflections, open discussions, and a chair’s summary.

The programme concluded with a rapporteur’s summary, delegate reflections, vote of thanks, and a multi-faith dedication, followed by a cultural performance by students of MIMC and felicitation of speakers and religious leaders.

Administrative Secretary, Tourism & Culture, UT Ladakh, Sanjit Rodrigues (IAS), presented mementos to the dignitaries in recognition of their contributions towards interfaith harmony and world peace.